When the check engine light comes on, it is the first sign of a problem with the oxygen sensor.If sensors aren't replaced, they cause problems and reduce fuel efficiency.The proper ratio of gas and oxygen into fuel can be achieved with the use of oxygen sensors.Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, there could be 2 to 4 of them to replace.If you don't have a lot of experience with cars, they are easy to replace.Remove the old sensors and install the new ones to see how much better your vehicle runs.
Step 1: The broken sensor can be detected with an obd code scanner.
A port on the dashboard is where an obd code scanner can be found.It shows you the reason for the check engine light by retrieving an error code from the onboard computer.There are different error codes for different parts of the vehicle.To figure out which sensor is to blame, type the code into an online database.At most auto parts stores, you can buy a scanner.You can take your vehicle to an auto parts store or mechanic if you don't have one.
Step 2: Let the engine cool down.
The exhaust system gets very hot when the vehicle is in use.Touching the engine is dangerous.Give the vehicle 30 minutes to cool off.Wear protective gear if you need to touch a component.A welder's mitt is a heat-resistant glove.Also, wear long-sleeved clothing and safety glasses.
Step 3: Jack up
The car should be parked on a hard surface.The wheels should be prevented from moving by wedging the chocks behind them.Put a jack under one of the vehicle's jack points.Place a jack stand on top of the car to keep it elevated.The first vehicles with 2 oxygen sensors were made in 1994.The second sensor can only be accessed by crawling underneath the vehicle.Before looking for the sensor, make sure the car is stable.If you are not comfortable working under a car, ask a mechanic for help.
Step 4: The hood or vehicle has an oxygen sensor.
Look for a part that has a black cable coming out of it.Next to the motor in the engine compartment is the first sensor.The exhaust pipe will lead from the motor to the back of the vehicle.The second sensor, which looks like a metal cylinder on the exhaust line, is found behind the front wheels of most cars.The majority of vehicles made after 2000 have at least 4 sensors.There are 2 sensors near the motor and the catalytic converter in each vehicle.
Step 5: The electrical connection to the oxygen sensor needs to be disconnected.
The sensor is plugged into the exhaust line.A plastic plug will be inserted into the outlet.There is a small tab on the end of the plug.Pull the plug back by hand when pushing the tab down.Push the tab down with a flathead screwdriver as you pull the connection back from the sensor wire.Don't solder the wires to the new oxygen sensor if you want to cut them.soldering causes wires to stop working
Step 6: To loosen the sensor, spray some penetrating oil on it.
A good penetrating oil helps ensure that the sensors come out.The sensor plugs into the exhaust line when the lubricating is added to the opening.Wait about 10 minutes for the oil to get into the sensor.You might need to apply the oil a few times before you can get the sensor out.It is possible to heat up the oxygen sensor's base and threads.Use a heat gun to warm the sensor until you can remove it.It is safer to use a heat gun than a torch, but be careful and wear proper safety gear.
Step 7: Remove the oxygen sensor with a wrench.
The easiest way to remove the oxygen sensor is by using a 8 in wrench.Try using an open end wrench if you don't have one.Plug the sensor into the exhaust line with the wrench.If you want to loosen it, turn it counterclockwise.Most auto parts stores have all of the tools you need.If your local auto parts store has a tool rental program, you should check it out.Don't force the sensor if it feels stuck.To avoid damaging the vehicle, apply more penetrating oil.Take it to a professional if it is difficult to remove.
Step 8: The old oxygen sensor can be replaced with a new one.
You can find the correct oxygen sensor by using the make and model of your car.You can find the exact sensor in a new Toyota Prius by searching for it.Make sure the new sensor is the same size and shape as the old one.It should be the same brand.It is possible to find off-brand sensors at a cheaper rate, but avoid them for the sake of your vehicle.The same sensor model is guaranteed to work with the vehicle's onboard computer.Before attempting to change the sensor, contact an auto parts store.If you can get a ride to the store, you could take the old sensor there.
Step 9: Anti-seize should be added to the new sensor.
There is a bag of bronze gel with the new sensors.It is an important lubricant and you may be wondering what it is.Use a clean rag or glove to spread a small amount of lubricant onto the new sensor's threads after cutting open the bag.The metal ring has grooves near the tip of the sensor.Wear a glove when applying the anti-seize.You should wash your hands after you get it on your skin.You don't need a lot of it.The sensor will fit in the exhaust line if you get some of it into the thread grooves.
Step 10: The sensor should be on the exhaust line.
Attach the tip of the sensor to the exhaust line.As you begin rotating it clockwise by hand, make sure it is centered.Once it is firmly in place, use an open end wrench to turn it.The new sensor doesn't need to be tightened as much.It's impossible to remove the threads if the sensor is tight.
Step 11: The vehicle's electrical connection needs to be plugged back into it.
Oxygen sensors come with a connected electrical cable, so you don't have to do any additional work.The sensor has a cable hanging from it.The outlet port is close to the exhaust line.Push the plug into place.When the vehicle is in use, make sure the cable isn't touching the engine or other parts that heat up.
Step 12: If the problem is not fixed, start the car.
The new sensor makes a difference.It makes your vehicle burn fuel more efficiently, it sounds better, and it uses less fuel.The check engine light will turn off if it is on.It's a good idea to take the car out on the road.You may need to manually clear the check engine light in some vehicles.After shutting off the engine, turn the car's power on with the key.To reset the light, use the deletion feature on the code scanner.The check engine light can be turned off by taking the vehicle to a mechanic.If the check engine light comes on, you may have a problem with the oxygen sensor.